Pages

12/2/12

What You Should Know Before You do Your Own Home Renovations ~ A Guest Post

About a week ago I was contacted by Brian Turner who happens to be a Toxic Substance Safety Advocate with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Blog, regarding health and safety concerns which we DIYers should keep in mind as we tackle our home projects and renovations. Brian has been an advocate since June of 2007 and has a tremendous amount of research and awareness experience in the area of environmental health risks and environmental carcinogens. Since I have a background in health care as a nurse, I found this information to be of great importance in the effort to keep both ourselves and our families safe from hidden risks which go along with the undertaking of such home endeavors.

So without further delay, please read through Brian's tips and warnings to help keep you safe and in the know.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chemical Dangers and Do-it-Yourself ProjectsMoney is tight in this
struggling economy. Nevertheless, the winter holidays are fast approaching and
you want a new kitchen. The only way you can afford a remodel is to do it
yourself.Home improvement projects
are common in times of housing slumps and weak economies. Do-it-yourself
renovations are less expensive than hiring a professional contractor, but they
can be quite a challenge for homeowners. They also pose potential health risks
that are not evident at first glance.Aluminum Wire DangersWhen choosing the perfect
cabinets and countertops for their project, many amateur renovators fail to
consider the hidden dangers that lurk in their kitchens. Toxic mold is
one example; old wiring is another. Aluminum wires, in particular, poses
serious risks for homeowners.As the demand grows for
energy efficient appliances and fixtures, the need for new electrical wires is
apparent. Modern electrical systems use copper wiring instead of aluminum. Not
only does aluminum pose a fire risk, but some studies link metallic aluminum to
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.Leaded Paint DangersHomes that were built
before 1978 may contain lead-basedpaints, and some plumbing used leaded pipes.
Lead is a natural element with beneficial uses, but toxic levels can negatively
impact health. Young children and pregnant women have the most health risks
from lead poisoning. According to the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), lead exposure may cause brain damage, hearing
loss, learning problems and stunted growth in children. Pregnant women risk
miscarriage, premature birth and congenital defects. Other adults may suffer
from nerve damage, heart disease, kidney damage or reproductive problems. Asbestos Cancer DangersAsbestos exposure is one of
the most dangerous threats in home renovations. Like lead, asbestos is an
organic substance with desirable properties and health risks. Once used
extensively in home insulation and building materials, asbestos is now
associated with serious health problems.

Mesothelioma, a rare and
deadly form of asbestos cancer, is a well-known condition linked to exposure.
Asbestos may also cause pleurisy, asbestosis and lung cancer. Removing
shingles, tiles and insulation from your kitchen has the potential to damage
asbestos materials and release toxins into theair. Damaged asbestos should be
handled only by a professional removal service. Homeowners should leave
undisturbed asbestos alone. If your kitchen lies in an
older home, be aware of the hidden dangers lurking under the cabinets and
behind the walls. Simple home improvement projects are suitable for amateur
renovators, but elaborate renovations are best left to professionals. Before
starting a remodeling project, weigh your financial savings against the health
risks. Arm yourself with information, education, protection and other safety
measures before proceeding with the job.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To read more about other safety issues and health concerns which may threaten us as we go on our merry way as thrifters, DIYers and so on, click here to follow Brian's blog. We know how much we enjoy doing things ourselves and take great pride in our accomplishments. Let's just make sure we are doing it the smart way by being sure we have the information we need to keep us all safe during the process.

What a smart post, Barbara. I have rehabbed 14 houses and was flipping long before flipping became the in-thing. I think I have probably been exposed to some of these toxins over the years and wish I had known some of this earlier. xo Diana

Disclaimer

All content provided on 21 Rosemary Lane blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.

The owner of www.21rosemarylane.com will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

These terms and conditions are subject to change at anytime with or without notice.

In addition products mentioned in some of my blog posts are done with the hope that i will render a good review on my blog. Products I review are ones that I have used personally and believe my readers will enjoy.

Follow me on social media...

Hello!! I am so thrilled you are here...

I am a 50 something mother of two beautiful children and the wife of my handsome and handy Mr. Rosemary Lane. I love anything to do with home and family, along with everything from thrifting and painting to getting elbow deep into a great DIY project or creating a favorite meal. To learn more about me check out my Meet Barbara page. (You can quickly get there by clicking on my image above.) Feel free to follow my life and decorating adventures by using any or all of my social icons.